In a recent twist in the tech and trade world, U.S. President Donald Trump announced he would extend the June 19 deadline for China-based ByteDance to divest TikTok's U.S. assets if no deal is reached. This news comes from his interview on NBC News' "Meet the Press with Kristen Welker," recorded at his Mar-a-Lago estate.
Trump, who once described having a "sweet spot" for TikTok due to its popularity with young voters, emphasized that the app is "very interesting" and will be protected. This isn’t the first reprieve—he has already postponed enforcement twice, highlighting just how pivotal TikTok has become for engaging millions of users.
A proposed deal aimed at spinning off TikTok’s U.S. operations into a new, majority U.S.-owned firm had been underway, but progress stalled amid tariff disputes with the Chinese mainland. Trump pointed out that steep tariffs on Chinese goods have been straining economic ties, and he hinted that these tariffs might eventually be eased as part of a broader agreement. 🤝
However, not everyone is convinced. Some Democratic senators argue that Trump lacks the legal authority to extend the deadline, suggesting that the pending deal may not meet required legal standards. Meanwhile, ByteDance has reiterated that discussions with U.S. officials continue, though several key issues remain unresolved.
This development is a vivid reminder of how intertwined technology, trade, and politics have become—especially in a digital age where apps like TikTok influence trends and cultural conversations across South and Southeast Asia. For many young, tech-savvy users in our region, TikTok isn’t just a platform for creative content; it’s a space that shapes global trends and even political debates. Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding story and share your thoughts on where tech meets politics! 😊
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Trump says he'll extend TikTok deadline if no deal reached by June 19
cgtn.com
